US lawmaker wants to block security aid to PNP over human rights concerns

From Rappler (Jul 15, 2022): US lawmaker wants to block security aid to PNP over human rights concerns (By JAIRO BOLLEDO)

Pennsylvania Representative Susan Wild seeks to limit the US' security assistance to the PNP until four conditions are met

Pennsylvania Representative Susan Wild introduced a measure, which seeks to limit the United States’ security assistance to the Philippine National Police (PNP) over human rights concerns.

On Thursday, July 14, human rights group International Coalition for Human Rights in the Philippines-US (ICHRP US) said that the Pennsylvania lawmaker submitted a proposed amendment to the US’ National Defense Authorization Act.


In her proposal, Wild said no funds should be given to the PNP unless the Philippine government acts on the alleged human rights abuses committed by the national police.

“No funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available to the Department of State are authorized to be made available to provide assistance for the Philippine National Police, including assistance in the form of equipment or training,” the proposal said.

Wild listed down four conditions for the PNP in order for aid to continue:

• Investigated and prosecuted members of the PNP “who violated human rights, ensured that police personnel cooperated with judicial authorities in such cases and affirmed that such violations have ceased.”

• Established that the PNP would protect the rights of journalists, trade unionists, human rights defenders, critics of the government, religious and activists “to operate without interference.”

• Taken steps to guarantee a judicial system capable of investigating and prosecuting members of the police and military who have committed human rights abuses.

• Fully compliant with national and US audits and probe on proper use of prior security assistance.

During her remarks on the US House floor, Wild emphasized that tax dollars should not be used to aid the Philippines amid issues of human rights abuses.

ICHRP US said the friendship between the Philippines and the US was best exemplified through Wild’s “bold steps.”

“Friendship between the people of the United States and the Philippines is demonstrated by genuine acts of solidarity, like those being exemplified by Rep. Wild in her taking bold steps towards a more sensible U.S.-Philippines relationship,” Drew Miller, national coordinator of ICHRP-US, said.

In 2020, Wild also introduced House Resolution No. 8313 or the proposed Philippine Human Rights Act, which also sought to suspend security assistance to the country until it had made “certain reforms to the military and police forces, and for other purposes.”

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US lawmaker wants to block security aid to PNP over human rights concerns

A year later, in 2021, Wild vowed to reintroduce the measure following more bloody killings occurring in the Philippines.

https://www.rappler.com/nation/united-states-lawmaker-wants-block-security-aid-pnp-concerns-human-rights/